Đà Nẵng International Airport. Việt Nam’s aviation industry is projected to handle a record of 84 million passengers this year. — VNA/VNS Photo Trần Lê Lâm

HÀ NỘI — Việt Nam’s aviation industry is flying high again, with passenger numbers expected to hit a record 84 million this year, marking a powerful comeback from the pandemic, according to the Civil Aviation Authority of Việt Nam (CAAV).

The CAAV reported that the sector’s rapid recovery — from just 16 million passengers in 2021 to 75 million in 2024 — highlights the country’s growing travel demand and the crucial role air transport plays in socio-economic development and tourism growth.

By 2025, Việt Nam’s international flight network has expanded from 130 routes before the pandemic to 150, connecting the country with 30 nations and territories. Several long-haul routes to Europe and North America are now under study and negotiation.

Airlines have also increased flight frequency on key routes and launched new services to popular tourist destinations, driving competition and connectivity.

The market’s dynamism is further underscored by the entry of two new carriers, Vietravel Airlines and SunPhuQuoc Airways, joining Vietnam Airlines, Vietjet Air, Pacific Airlines and Bamboo Airways.

CAAV Director Uông Việt Dũng said the arrival of new players demonstrated the strong potential of Việt Nam’s aviation market while creating growth opportunities, fostering healthy competition and encouraging service improvement and product diversification.

He added that aviation would continue stimulating investment in transport infrastructure and boost tourism, contributing to local and regional economic development. — VNS